Cathodes

The cathode is the base product of copper for high-grade applications. Pure copper is extracted from unwrought copper in the form of cathodes during the electrolytic refining process.

Copper cathodes with certain contents of impurities are also registered and traded at the London Metal Exchange and the Comex. High-quality copper is distinguished by very low contents of impurities, since even the smallest amounts of selenium, bismuth or antimony in the ppm range significantly impact conductivity.

Aurubis copper brands "NA-ESN", "HK", "OLEN" and "PIRDOP" are registered at the LME and characterized by their high purity and consistent quality, regardless of the raw materials used. These cathodes form the basis for the high-grade Aurubis copper products.

Dimensions

NA-ESN

HK

OLEN

PIRDOP

Length (approx.)

965 mm

1060 mm

1005 mm

1000 mm

Width (approx.)

975 mm

906 mm

995 mm

1020 mm

Thickness (approx.)

5-10 mm

5-10 mm

6 mm

5-10 mm

Weight (approx.)

50-70 kg

50-70 kg

50-60 kg

max. 80 kg

Analysis of NA-ESN, HK, OLEN and PIRDOP cathodes

Pb

Bi

As

Sb

Sn

Zn

Fe

Ni

Co

Cr

Cd

Mn

Se

Te

Ag

S

<1

<05

1

1

<1

<1

<2

1

<1

<1

<1

<1

<05

<05

10-15

<7

(data in ppm)

These cathode brands comply with the cathode standard ASTM B 115, Grade 1, DIN EN 1978 as well as Cu-KATH-1.